Prep Cook

The HR Connect; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking passionate Prep Cooks to join their vibrant team. In this dynamic role, you will be responsible for preparing ingredients, maintaining a clean kitchen, and supporting the Kitchen Manager and staff to deliver exceptional, high-quality dishes. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and take pride in your work, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a community-driven workplace that values teamwork and offers career growth, where your contributions will play a vital role in creating memorable dining experiences. Be part of a mission to redefine late-night food with authentic, health-conscious options!

Benefits

Free meals during shifts

Opportunities for career growth

Dynamic, community-driven work environment

Biweekly pay

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in food preparation for a restaurant.
• Ability to communicate effectively with managers and kitchen staff.

Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients and set up stations for cooking.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen.

Skills

Food Preparation

Communication Skills

Attention to Cleanliness

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Kitchen Equipment

Food Safety Guidelines

Job description

We’re Hiring Prep Cooks!

Position Summary

We’re looking for Prep Cooks to join our team at Jerk at Nite! As a Prep Cook, you will be responsible for preparing ingredients, setting up stations, and ensuring the kitchen remains clean and sanitized. This role is essential to keeping our kitchen efficient and organized, ensuring that our Kitchen Manager and fellow kitchen staff have everything they need to create high-quality dishes. If you’re detail-oriented, hardworking, and passionate about food preparation, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

About Jerk at Nite

When late-night food options on Howard University’s campus failed to meet the needs of students pulling all-nighters, working on projects, and attending campus events, Jerk at Nite stepped in to fill the gap. We believe that authentic, hearty, and health-conscious food should be available at any hour not just pizza, fast food, or takeout loaded with preservatives.

That’s why we serve Jamaican-infused dishes with an exotic mix of Mexican and American soul food flavorsoffering a better, bolder, and healthier late-night alternative. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for Prep Cooks to help us maintain our commitment to exceptional food, efficiency, and consistency.

Why Join the Jerk at Nite Team?

At Jerk at Nite, we believe our success starts with our team. We want you to enjoy working with us, grow in your role, and feel empowered to help drive our mission forward.

Core Values We Live By

• Accountability Delivering high-quality, innovative food that creates memorable experiences and earns customer loyalty.

• Integrity Doing the right thing, taking responsibility for your work, and maintaining honesty in all actions.

• Excellence Never settling for “good enough.” We always push to exceed expectations.

• Pride Taking ownership of your role and contributing to a smooth, efficient team.

Position Responsibilities

PEOPLE: Teamwork & Kitchen Support

• Assist the Kitchen Manager and fellow kitchen staff by prepping ingredients and setting up stations

• Maintain clear and professional communication with the team

• Ensure food preparation is completed efficiently and accurately

PRODUCTS: Food Preparation & Quality Control

• Chop vegetables, wash food items, and prepare meats according to company standards

• Measure and season ingredients for cooking

• Undertake basic cooking duties such as reducing sauces and parboiling food

• Prepare sauces with the correct ingredients as outlined in the recipe book

• Gather ingredients from the refrigerator or freezer as required by the Kitchen Manager

• Ensure all food is properly stored when not in use

• Study the menu and prepare ingredients at least one day ahead of schedule

PLACE: Cleanliness & Organization

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment

• Label and stock all ingredients on shelves for easy access

• Wash dishes, sanitize surfaces, and take out trash as needed

• Ensure kitchen equipment and appliances are clean and ready for use

PROFIT: Efficiency & Food Safety

• Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper handwashing and cross-contamination prevention

• Ensure food and other items are properly stored

• Work efficiently to minimize food waste and improve service speed

What We’re Looking For

Minimum 1 year of experience in food preparation for a restaurant
At least 6 months of experience in a similar role
Ability to communicate effectively with managers, kitchen staff, and dining personnel
Must be able to stand for extended periods (up to 10 hours)
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, bend, reach, and stoop frequently
Strong attention to cleanliness and food safety
Must be available to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

What You’ll Get

We offer great benefits to our team members, including:
Free meals during shifts
Opportunities for career growth
A dynamic, community-driven work environment
Biweekly pay

Join Our Team!

If you’re passionate about food prep, thrive in a fast-paced kitchen, and take pride in delivering high-quality ingredients, we’d love to hear from you!

Jerk at Nite is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.